Driving without a valid driver’s license isn’t something you should ever consider.
It can land you in more hot water than you might expect. Beyond the associated vehicle and traffic charges, you need to address the core criminal charge.
Many people feel that driving without a valid license is a victimless crime. Probably because they’ve done it at some point in their lives. However, as you’ll soon learn, driving without a valid license has a number of implications besides just paying a fine to get out of a traffic violation.
When Is a Valid Driver’s License Required?
Before we deep dive into the penalties of driving without a license, let’s check first when we must carry a valid one.
In the United States, they require a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. The laws regarding when it is a must vary from state to state. But in general, one should carry one when operating a vehicle on a public road or highway.
You do not need to carry a valid license with you at all times. However, if a police officer stops you, you will be needing to show yours. If you do not have any, you may be given a ticket, or worse, they may arrest you.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as when a person is driving a vehicle on private property or when a person is driving a vehicle that does not require a license (such as a golf cart).
When Can They Impose Driving Penalties?
The state can suspend or revoke a person’s license to drive for various reasons, including accumulating too many points on one’s driver’s license, being convicted of a DUI, or failing to maintain car insurance. In most cases, a driver will get a warning before this happens. However, depending on the severity of the offense, they can suspend or revoke a license immediately.
What Does Suspending of License Mean?
If you are caught driving without license, the penalties can be quite severe. Depending on the state in which you are caught, you could be facing a fine, jail time, or both. In some states, driving without a valid driver’s license is a misdemeanor, while in others it is a felony.
A license suspension means that you cannot drive for a period of time. The length of the suspension will vary depending on the reason for the suspension.
What Does Revoking of License Mean?
Revocation means that the person’s driver’s license will permanently be a revoked license and they are not allowed to drive again. This is a serious offense and the person will face many consequences.
Some of these consequences include a fine, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. This offense is very serious concerning the law and the person will face severe penalties if they are caught driving without a valid driver’s license.
Be a Responsible Driver
If you’re like most people, you probably bring your valid driver’s license every day. You’re so familiar with it being with you always that it’s also easy to forget when you leave home. Avoid forgetting to carry your license by keeping it in a convenient place or setting a reminder to grab it before leaving home.
Before you leave for your destination, double-check that you have yours in you. Remember, driving is a privilege, not a right. Be a responsible driver.
